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Maritime and Coastguard Agency LogMERCHANT SHIPPING NOTICE

MSN 1856 (M+F)

Training & Certification Guidance: UK Requirementsfor Master and Deck OfficersNotice to all Owners, Masters, Officers, Ratings and those concerned with maritimetraining.

This notice replaces MGN 91 (M), MGN 92 (M), MGN 97(M) and MGN 263.

SummaryThis Merchant Shipping Notice (MSN) sets out and explains the regulatory requirements regardingthe implementation of training elements applicable under Chapter II of the Standards of Training,Certification and Watchkeeping (STCW) Convention and Code. It outlines the certification structureand examination and training requirements for Merchant Navy deck officers. The certificationsystem provides a structured progression route for trainee officers and ratings entering the industryto achieve Officer of the Watch (OOW), Chief Mate and Master qualifications.

This MSN covers:

1. Introduction2. Deck Merchant Navy Certificate of Competency (CoC) Structure3. Mandatory Requirements for Masters and Deck Officers (Unlimited)4. Certification for Masters and Chief Mates on Vessels of less than 3,000 GT, Unlimited Area5. Near-Coastal Area, Unlimited Tonnage6. Near-Coastal Area, Ships less than 500 GT7. Certification for Master Hovercraft, less than 500 GT, Near-Coastal Trading Area, Regulation II/38. Near-Coastal Specified Trading Area, Ships less than 3,000 GT9. Seagoing Service Requirements10. Ancillary and Safety Course Certification11. Approved Education and Training Schemes12. Medical Fitness and Eyesight Standards13. Conversions to an OOW II/1 Certificate of Competency14. Conversions from non-UK Certificates of Competency15. Royal Navy Conversions16. Application Procedure17. Notice of Eligibility (NOE)18. MCA Oral Examination19. The Issue of your Certificate of Competency20. Fraudulent Certificates and Seagoing Service

Please note that the Revalidation of all Certificates of Competency is covered in MSN 1861.

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1. Introduction

1.1 The Merchant Shipping (Standards of Training, Certification and Watchkeeping)Regulations 2015, implement the requirements of the International Convention and Codeon Standards of Training, Certification and Watch-keeping (STCW) 1978, as amended(referred to in this MSN as the ‘STCW Convention’ and ‘STCW Code’ respectively)including the provisions prescribing the mandatory minimum requirements for thecertification of Masters and Deck Officers.

1.2 To obtain a United Kingdom (UK) STCW Certificate of Competency you must:

Meet the minimum age requirement; Complete the minimum period of seagoing service; Undertake ancillary technical and safety training; Complete the appropriate programme(s) of education and training meeting the

minimum vocational and academic standard; Meet medical standards (including eyesight); If applicable, pass an oral examination conducted by a Maritime and

Coastguard Agency (MCA) examiner.

If you are considering a seagoing career it is strongly advised that you undergo amedical and sight test, which includes testing of colour and visual acuity, beforestarting training. Please refer to section 12 of this MSN.

1.3 Prior to joining your first merchant navy ship for your first sea voyage you will need to holdthe following certificates;

A valid ENG1 (medical fitness certificate) or accepted equivalent; Personal Survival Techniques (STCW Code – Table A-VI/1-1); Fire Prevention and Fire Fighting (STCW Code – Table A-VI/1-2); Elementary First Aid (STCW Code – Table A-VI/1-3); Personal Safety and Social Responsibilities (STCW Code - Table A-VI/1-4); Security Awareness (STCW)1.

All references to Certificates of Competency in this notice mean those issued by theMCA unless otherwise stated.

1.4 Relevant organisations:

MNTB: The Merchant Navy Training Board is the UK shipping industry’s central body forpromoting and developing sector specific education, training and skills. They work tocreate a structure of qualifications, learning pathways and education and trainingarrangements, based on national occupational standards, which ensure compliance withstatutory obligations.

1 If you are to serve on ships to which the International Ship and Port Facility (ISPS) Code appliesyou must hold a Security Awareness certificate (STCW A-VI/6- 4). If you are assigned designatedsecurity duties aboard a vessel you must obtain a Designated Security Duties certificate (STCW A-VI/6 - 6 to 8). Please refer to MSN 1865.

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SQA: The Scottish Qualifications Authority is a national accreditation and awarding bodyfor qualifications other than degrees. The SQA quality-assures awarding bodies (nauticalcolleges) that plan to enter candidates for these qualifications. As an awarding body theSQA:

Devises and develops qualifications; Validates qualifications (ensure they are well written and meet the needs of

learners and tutors); Reviews qualifications to ensure they are up to date; Arranges for, assists in, and carries out the assessment of candidates taking

SQA qualifications; Quality-assures education and training establishments which offer SQA

qualifications; Issues certificates to candidates.

2. Deck Merchant Navy Certificate of Competency (CoC) Structure

2.1 The following Certificate of Competency requirements are listed in this MSN:

2.2 Deck officer Certificates of Competency will state the following STCW functions:

Navigation (function 1); Cargo handling and stowage (function 2); Controlling the operation of the ship and care for persons onboard (function 3); Radiocommunications (function 7).

2.3 These will be at the granted STCW capacity level:

Operational – this will be identified as an “O” on the Certificate of Competency; Management– this will be identified as an “M” on the Certificate of Competency.

CoC Area Limitation Tonnage Limitation STCW ConventionRegulation

Officer of theWatch (OOW)

Near-coastalUnlimited

Less than 500 GTUnlimited

II/3II/1

Chief Mate

Near-coastalNear-coastal

UnlimitedUnlimited

UnlimitedLess than 3,000 GTLess than 3,000 GT

Unlimited

II/2II/2II/2II/2

Master

Near-coastalSpecified area

Near-coastalUnlimitedUnlimited

Less than 500 GTLess than 3,000 GT domestic

vessels

UnlimitedLess than 3,000 GT

Unlimited

II/3II/3

II/2II/2II/2

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2.4 The required functions and capacities for each Certificate of Competency will be:

Applicable CoCFunction OOW Chief Mate /

Master1 O M2 O M3 O M7 O O

3. Mandatory Requirements for Masters and Deck Officers (Unlimited)

A summary of the unlimited trading areas and Gross Tonnage (GT) for Certificate ofCompetency progression can be found in Annex A.

3.1 Certification for Officers in charge of a Navigational Watch (OOW) unlimited, STCWConvention regulation II/1

If you have met the requirements and have been accepted onto an MNTB-approved cadettraining programme, you must obtain a letter from the college confirming your attendanceon the programme. This letter must be submitted when you make your application for anOOW, II/1, Certificate of Competency.

If you are following an MCA-approved ‘overseas collaborative programme’ (“one plus one”)overseen by a UK nautical college, you must obtain a letter from the college confirmingyour attendance on the programme and the seagoing service requirements applicable tothat programme. This letter must be submitted when you make your application for anOOW, II/1, Certificate of Competency.

If you are able to demonstrate 36 months of acceptable seagoing service you may beeligible to undertake the MCA-approved ‘experienced seafarer route’. You do not require acollege letter for the issue of an NOE. You will need to apply to MCA-approved nauticalcollege for acceptance onto the course.

If you undertake and pass an MNTB-approved Honours Degree, Foundation Degree orScottish Professional Diploma to the required level you will be exempt from the SQA OOW,II/1, written examinations.

3.2 To qualify for the issue of OOW unlimited Certificate of Competency you must meet thefollowing requirements:

(a) Be at least 18 years of age;(b) Since the age of 16, have obtained either;

Approved seagoing service of not less than 12 months as part of an MNTB-approved cadet training programme or MNTB-approved honours degree, whichincludes onboard training that meets the requirements of section A-II/1 of theSTCW Code and is documented in an approved Training Record Book. Thismust include 6 months’ seagoing service engaged in bridge watchkeepingduties; or

The approved seagoing service specified on your college letter as part of anMCA-approved ‘overseas collaborative programme’, which includes onboardtraining that meets the requirements of section A-II/1 of the STCW Code and is

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documented in an approved Training Record Book. This must include 6 months’seagoing service engaged in bridge watchkeeping duties; or

36 months’2 seagoing service with 6 months engaged in bridge watchkeepingduties (‘experienced seafarer route’);

(c) Hold the applicable ancillary and safety course certificates listed in section 10;(d) Successfully complete an approved education and training programme meeting the

standards of competency specified in section A-II/1 of the STCW Code as listed insection 11;

(e) Hold a Signals certificate issued in the last 3 years;(f) Pass SQA OOW written examinations at an approved SQA Centre in the following

subjects:

Navigation; Stability and operations;

(g) Hold a valid ENG1 (medical fitness certificate) or accepted equivalent;(h) Pass MCA oral examination ‘C’ (for the syllabus see MGN 69 or any subsequent

publication).

The SQA written examinations and MCA oral examination must be passed within 3years prior to the date of the issue of your Certificate of Competency.

3.3 Certification for Chief Mate unlimited, STCW Convention regulation II/2

To qualify for the issue of this Certificate of Competency you must meet the followingrequirements:

(a) Hold a valid OOW unlimited, II/1, Certificate of Competency;(b) Have completed 12 months’ watchkeeping service while holding an OOW unlimited,

II/1, Certificate of Competency;(c) Hold the applicable ancillary and safety course certificates as listed in section 10;(d) Successfully complete an approved education and training programme meeting the

standards of competency specified in section A-II/2 of the STCW Code as listed insection 11;

(e) Pass SQA Chief Mate/Master’s written examinations at an approved SQA centre in thefollowing subjects:

Navigation; Stability and structure;

(f) Hold a valid ENG1 (medical fitness certificate) or accepted equivalent;(g) Pass MCA oral examination `B’ (for the syllabus see MGN 69 or any subsequent

publication).

Candidates who enrolled on an MNTB-approved Honours Degree, Foundation Degree orScottish Professional Diploma prior to 01 September 2015 will be exempt from the externalSQA written examinations up until 1 September 20223. You must obtain a letter from yournautical college confirming your enrolment date and submit this with your Chief MateCertificate of Competency application.

2 If you are not enrolled on an MNTB or MCA approved route and have been working as a GeneralPurpose (GP) rating you must demonstrate 48 months’ seagoing service.

3 You must have met the full qualifying conditions for the Chief Mate unlimited, II/2, Certificate ofCompetency and have submitted original documentary evidence of this to the MCA prior to this date.

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3.4 Certification for Master unlimited, STCW Convention regulation II/24


(a) Hold a valid Chief Mate unlimited, II/2, Certificate of Competency by meeting all of therequirements listed in 3.3;

(b) Have completed 36 months’ watchkeeping service while holding OOW unlimited II/1,Certificate of Competency. This period may be reduced to 24 months if at least 12months of such seagoing service has been served as Chief Mate while holding a ChiefMate unlimited, II/2, Certificate of Competency;

(c) Hold applicable ancillary and safety course certificates as listed in section 10;(d) Hold a valid ENG1 (medical fitness certificate) or accepted equivalent;(e) Pass MCA oral examination `A’ (for the syllabus see MGN 69 or any subsequent

publication).

4. Certification for Masters and Chief Mates on vessels of less than 3,000 GT, unlimitedarea

4.1 Certification for Chief Mate, less than 3,000 GT, unlimited area, STCW Conventionregulation II/2


(a) Hold a valid OOW unlimited, II/1, Certificate of Competency;(b) Have completed 6 months’ watchkeeping service while holding an OOW unlimited, II/1,

Certificate of Competency;(c) Hold a NAEST certificate at management level;(d) Hold a HELM certificate at management level;(e) Hold the applicable ancillary and safety course certificates listed in section 10;(f) Hold a valid ENG 1 (medical fitness certificate) or accepted equivalent;(g) Pass MCA oral examination `D’ (for the syllabus see MGN 69 or any subsequent

publication).

4.2 Certification for Master, less than 3000 GT, unlimited area, STCW Conventionregulation II/2


(a) Hold a valid Chief Mate unlimited, II/2, Certificate of Competency;(b) Have 36 months’ watchkeeping service while holding OOW unlimited, II/1, Certificate of

Competency; this may be reduced to a minimum of 24 months if at least 12 months ofseagoing service has been served as Chief Mate;

(c) Hold the applicable ancillary and safety course certificates listed in section 10;(d) Hold a valid ENG1 (medical fitness certificate) or accepted equivalent.

4 If you qualified before 1980 for your UK Chief Mate II/2, unlimited, Certificate of Competency and wishto upgrade, to Master unlimited, II/2, Certificate of Competency you must refer to annex C.

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5. Near-Coastal Area, Unlimited Tonnage

If you meet the requirements you may obtain a near-coastal Certificate of Competency.This will allow you to work on vessels in the UK near-coastal area with the maximum size ofthe vessel specified below. “Near-coastal” means an area of operation restricted to150 miles from a safe haven on the coast of the UK and 30 miles from Ireland. A summaryof the near-coastal Certificate of Competency progression can be found in Annex B.

5.1 Certification for Chief Mate, unlimited tonnage, near-coastal trading area, STCWConvention regulation II/2


(a) Hold a valid OOW unlimited, II/1, Certificate of Competency5;(b) Have completed 12 months’ watchkeeping service while holding an OOW unlimited,

II/1, Certificate of Competency;(c) Hold the applicable ancillary and safety course certificates as listed in section 10;(d) Successfully complete an approved education and training programme meeting the

standards of competency specified in section A-II/2 of the STCW Code as applicable toa near-coastal restricted Certificate of Competency and covered by passing thefollowing SQA written examinations:

Magnetic compass and navigational aids; Ship construction and stability; Shipboard operations;

(e) Hold a valid ENG1 (medical fitness certificate) or accepted equivalent;(f) Pass MCA oral examination ‘F’ (for the syllabus see MGN 69 or any subsequent

publication).


5.2 Certification for Master, unlimited tonnage, near-coastal trading area, STCWConvention regulation II/2


(a) Hold a valid Chief Mate unlimited GT, near-coastal, II/2, Certificate of Competency or aChief Mate unlimited, II/2, Certificate of Competency;

(b) Have completed 36 months’ watchkeeping service including at least 18 months’watchkeeping service performed holding a Chief Mate unlimited GT, near-coastal, II/2,Certificate of Competency or a Chief Mate unlimited, II/2, Certificate of Competency.This may be reduced to 24 months’ watchkeeping service if at least 12 months’watchkeeping service was carried out in the capacity of Chief Mate while holding aChief Mate unlimited GT, near-coastal, II/2, Certificate of Competency or Chief Mateunlimited, II/2, Certificate of Competency;

(c) Hold the applicable ancillary and safety course certificates listed in section 10;(d) Hold a valid ENG1 (medical fitness certificate) or accepted equivalent;

5 Holders of a Master less than 500 GT, near-coastal trading area, regulation II/3 Certificate ofCompetency are eligible to apply for this Certificate. They must first complete additional academic unitsrequired to meet the standard for an OOW unlimited, regulation II/1 standard.

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(e) Pass MCA oral examination ‘G’ (for the syllabus see MGN 69 or any subsequentpublication).

5.3 Certification for Chief Mate, less than 3000 GT, near-coastal trading area, STCWConvention regulation II/2


(a) Hold a valid OOW unlimited, II/1, Certificate of Competence;(b) Hold a valid ENG1 (medical fitness Certificate) or accepted equivalent;(c) Hold a NAEST Certificate at Management level;(d) Hold the applicable ancillary and safety course certificates listed in section 10;(e) Pass MCA oral examination ‘D’ (for the syllabus see MGN 69 or any subsequent

publication).

Oral examination ‘D’ will be conducted from the perspective of a Chief Mate on a less than3,000 GT near-coastal vessel.

6. Near-Coastal Area, Ships Less Than 500 GT

6.1 Certification for Officer of the Watch (OOW) less than 500 GT, near-coastal tradingarea, STCW Convention regulation II/3


(a) Be at least 18 years of age;(b) Have (since the age of 16) completed 36 months’ seagoing service in the deck

department. This may be reduced to 12 months if following an approved trainingcourse;

(c) Hold the applicable ancillary and safety course certificates listed in section 10;(d) Hold a Signals certificate issued within the last 3 years;(e) Have successfully completed of approved education and training programme meeting

the standards of competency specified in section A-II/3 of the STCW Code and passedthe following SQA written exams examinations:

General Ship Knowledge; Chart-work and Coastal Navigation; Meteorology;

(f) Hold an ENG 1 (medical fitness certificate) or accepted equivalent;(g) Pass MCA oral examination ‘E’ (for the syllabus see MGN 69 or any subsequent

publication).

The sea time may be reduced to 12 months if you have followed an MNTB-approvedtraining course and complete the relevant academic studies.

Officers or ratings from other categories must provide evidence of work on deck in the formof an approved Training Record Book for the stated period of seagoing service, includingbridge watchkeeping duties of 6 months.


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6.2 Certification for Master less than 500 GT, near-coastal trading area, STCWConvention regulation II/3


(a) Be at least 20 years of age;(b) Hold a valid OOW unlimited, II/1, Certificate of Competence or OOW less than 500 GT,

near-coastal trading area, II/3, Certificate of Competence;(c) Have completed 12 months’ watchkeeping service while holding a regulation II/3 or II/1

Certificate of Competency;(d) Hold the applicable ancillary and safety course certificates listed in section 10;(e) Hold a valid ENG1 (medical fitness certificate) or accepted equivalent;(f) Pass MCA oral examination ‘D’ (for the syllabus see MGN 69 or any subsequent

publication).

7. Certification for Master, Hovercraft, Less than 500 GT, Near-Coastal Trading Area,STCW Convention Regulation II/3

To obtain a Master II/3, hovercraft less than 500 GT on near-coastal voyages Certificate ofCompetency you must refer to Annex D.

8. Near-coastal Specified Trading Area, Ships Less than 3,000 GT

8.1 Specified trading areas is an area defined by the local MCA Marine Office.

8.2 Certification for Master, less than 3,000 GT, specified trading area, STCWConvention regulation II/3


(a) Be at least 20 of age;(b) Hold a Master less than 500 GT, II/3, Certificate of Competency;(c) Have completed 12 months’ watchkeeping service in the specified area while holding

an OOW less than 500 GT, near-coastal, II/3, Certificate of Competency;(d) Hold the applicable ancillary and safety course certificates listed in section 10;(e) Hold a valid ENG1 (medical fitness certificate) or accepted equivalent;(f) Pass MCA oral examination `H’ (for the syllabus see MGN 69 or any subsequent

publication).

9. Seagoing Service Requirements

9.1 Before being considered for an MCA oral examination you are required to provide evidenceof having completed the full amount of qualifying seagoing service applicable to theCertificate of Competency you are applying for.

9.2 Calculating seagoing service

Seagoing service is defined as time spent onboard a ship, relevant to the issue of thecertificate or other qualification being applied for. Seagoing service must be in the deckdepartment and will be reckoned from the date of engagement to the date of discharge.

At least 6 months of the qualifying seagoing service must have been performed within the 5years immediately preceding the date your application is received by the MCA.

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A month is defined as a calendar month or 30 days if made up of periods of less than onemonth.

9.3 Requirements for seagoing service:

Seagoing service may be performed on vessels of any flag.

Seagoing service must be performed on merchant ships of at least 24 metres in registeredlength or not less than 80 GT proceeding to sea. Proceeding to sea means beyond thecategorised waters around the coast of the UK or beyond the harbour limits for watersoutside the UK.

If you are applying for either a Chief Mate or Master Certificate of Competency you willneed to provide proof of watchkeeping service. “Watchkeeping service” is defined as timespent as the duty officer in full charge of a navigational watch for no less than 4 out ofevery 24 hours while the vessel is engaged on a voyage.

If you are applying for an unlimited area Chief Mate or Master Certificate of Competency,you must have a minimum of 6 months’ seagoing service in a watchkeeping capacity,either in vessels of more than 500 GT or on voyages outside the UK near-coastal area orharbour limits for waters outside the UK.

For Certificates of Competency requiring at least 12 months seagoing service, no morethan 2 months’ service spent standing-by a new vessel during the final stages ofconstruction, in dry dock, or undergoing repairs can be counted.

9.4 Required documentary evidence

You will be required to submit documentary evidence of seagoing service for eachCertificate of Competency you apply for. Proof of seagoing service must be documented byeither Merchant Navy discharge book entries or certificates of discharge. Entries must besupported by testimonials from the Master. Examples of seagoing testimonials can befound in Annex E. The testimonials must cover your conduct and ability and include detailsof seagoing and watchkeeping service as applicable.

9.5 If you are applying for an OOW II/1 Certificate of Competency you are required to producea statement from the Master under whom you served, stating that you have performedbridge watchkeeping duties under the supervision of the Master or a qualified officer for aperiod of not less than 6 months. These duties may include keeping a lookout on thebridge or acting as helmsman.

9.6 If you are a trainee deck officer, before being eligible for a reduction from 36 months’ to 12months’ seagoing service, you must produce evidence that an MNTB-approved or anMCA-approved overseas collaborative programme has been followed, and that all serviceonboard ship was performed in a satisfactory manner. You must complete an MNTBTraining Record Book (TRB) and obtain a letter from your college confirming theprogramme you are following.

9.7 If you have obtained seagoing service on specialised ships, yachts, tugs Royal Navyvessels or within categorised waters, you should refer to Annex F.

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10. Ancillary and Safety Course Certification

10.1 The ancillary and safety courses that are required for the issue of each Certificate ofCompetency are contained in the table below. On successful completion of the relevantcourse you will be issued with an STCW certificate of proficiency.

10.2 The ancillary technical courses form part of the education and training specified insections; A-II/1, A-II/2 or A-II/3 of the STCW Code. The safety courses form part ofmandatory training for; emergency, occupational safety, security, medical care andsurvival functions specified in chapter A-VI STCW 1978 Code.

10.3 You must successfully complete all the required ancillary technical and safety trainingapplicable to your Certificate of Competency.

Ancillary/Safety CourseCertificate II/1 II/2 II/3

STCWCode

Reference

Updatingrequired

Personal Survival Techniques a Yes Yes Yes A-V1/1-1

Fire Prevention and Fire Fighting a Yes Yes Yes A-VI/1-2

Elementary First Aid a Yes Yes Yes A-V1/1-3

Personal Safety and SocialResponsibility a Yes Yes Yes A-V1/1-4

Proficiency in Survival Craft andRescue Boats b Yes Yes Yes A-V1/2*

Advanced Fire Fighting b Yes Yes Yes A-VI/3

Medical First Aid b Yes Yes Yes A-V1/4-1

Medical Care b Yes A-VI/4-2 See 10.8

NAEST (operational) c Yes Yes Yes A-II/1

NAEST (management) c Yes A-II/2

Efficient Deck Hand (EDH) c Yes Yes Yes N/A

HELM (operational) c Yes Yes N/A

HELM (management) c Yes N/A

GMDSS (GOC) d Yes Yes A-IV/2

GMDSS (ROC) d Yes A-IV/2

From 01 January 2017 you will be required to provide documentary evidence of eithercompleting the training course or updating your training within the preceding 5 years for allCertificate of Competency applications. To satisfy Port State Control requirements you willneed to hold evidence onboard your vessel of completing or updating your training within thelast 5 years. For further information relating to STCW course certificates, including theirvalidity, please refer to MSN 1865.

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For the issue of a Certificate of Competency:

a - The MCA will accept certificates issued under the authority of any IMO 'White List' country.b - The MCA will accept certificates issued under the authority of any EU Member State, aswell as Canada, New Zealand and South Africa6.c - Certificates must be MCA-approved.d - The MCA will accept certificates issued under the authority of any EU Member State andthose listed on the approved list available from our website: go to www.gov.uk and search“GMDSS”.

10.4 Human Element and Leadership and Management (HELM)

HELM forms part of the education and training requirements to obtain a UK Certificate ofCompetency. HELM aims to provide you with the leadership and managerial skillsrequired by the STCW Code.

If you are following an MNTB-approved officer training scheme leading to the issue of anOfficer of the Watch Certificate of Competency you will cover the operationalrequirements as part of your course and you will not need to submit a course completioncertificate. If you are following an MCA-approved overseas collaborative programme(one plus one scheme) you should consult with the UK parent college as separateagreements will be made by each college with the MCA.

HELM Management is a standalone course. You must submit a course completioncertificate regardless of the education and training route you have followed.

The following Royal Navy training will be accepted in place of HELM training:

HELM (O) - Royal Navy Navigational Watch Keeping Officers (NWKC), PettyOfficers and Ratings who hold First Line Management ‘Leadership andManagement’ (L&M). Royal Navy ratings that have completed ‘Royal NavySenior Ratings’ Command Course;

HELM (M) - Royal Navy CQ1 and CQ2 who hold level 4 L&M (Royal Navyissued).

10.5 Navigation Aids and Equipment Simulator Training (NAEST)

NAEST forms part of the education and training required to obtain a UK Certificate ofCompetency. It will give you the fundamental knowledge and skills required to maintaina safe navigational watch, use electronic navigational aids to determine vessel positionand use the equipment for safety of navigation in anti-collision modes.

NAEST Operational: Provided you undertook NAEST Operational (formally NARASOperational) after 1 July 2005, you will have covered the use of Electronic Chart DisplayInformation Systems (ECDIS) required by the STCW Code. If you have not covered theECDIS requirements, you will need to complete a standalone MCA-approved ECDIScourse.

NAEST Management: If you have not covered the ECDIS requirements, you will need tocomplete a standalone MCA-approved ECDIS course as pre-requisit, beforeundertaking the NAEST Management course.

6 The MCA will accept these certificates of proficiency issued by India and Pakistan up until 01 January2017. After this date the MCA may accept some certificates of proficiency issued by DG Shipping-approved training providers, for details please refer to our website, search www.gov.uk for “MCA ATP”.

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Details of MCA-approved EDCIS courses are available from our website: www.gov.ukand search “MCA ATP”.

10.6 Efficient Deck Hand (EDH)

EDH forms part of the education and training required to obtain a UK Certificate ofCompetency. The EDH course provides an understanding of safe working practices withregard to seamanship, cargo work, anchor procedures, pilot ladders and means ofaccess, shipboard organisation and associated topics. Further information about thecourse requirements can be found in MSN 1862.

10.7 The Global Maritime Distress and Safety System (GMDSS)

Any person operating any radio equipment must be appropriately qualified. The GMDSScourse forms part of the education and training required to obtain a UK Certificate ofCompetency. To obtain a UK Certificate of Competency you must hold a valid GMDSScertificate issued by the UK or an administration recognised by the MCA. The certificatemust have an STCW endorsement. For further information about the GMDSS includingrecognised administrations, please refer to MSN 1864 or search our website www.gov.ukfor “GMDSS”.

10.8 Medical care

The Medical Care certificate is valid for a period of 5 years. This must be valid when youapply for your Certificate of Competency. If you serve on an EU-registered vessel as aMaster or are the person in charge of medical care on a vessel operating in the unlimitedarea, you will need to have undertaken approved Medical Care training or a refreshercourse within the previous 5 years. This is the requirement of Article 4(1) (b) of Directive92/29 EEC.

10.9 Further Information

Further information about; Personal Survival Techniques, Fire Prevention and FireFighting, Elementary First Aid, Personal Safety and Social Responsibility, Proficiency inSurvival Craft and Rescue Boats, Advanced Fire Fighting, Medical First, Aid MedicalCare and other required shipboard courses can be found in MSN 1865.

11. Approved Education and Training Schemes

11.1 Education and training progammes leading to the issue of Certificates of Competencymust be approved by the MCA. The MCA will ensure that each programme meets theSTCW regulatory requirements. The MCA will monitor and audit all nautical collegesthat offer training and education leading to the issue of an STCW Certificate ofCompetency. Details of the approval process are contained in Annex G.

11.2 To ensure learning outcomes can be successfully delivered the MCA requires aclassroom attendance rate of at least 80%. Shipping companies and nautical collegesmay set a higher rate of attendance.

11.3 Honours Degree/Foundation Degree/ Scottish Professional Diploma

The Honours Degree (HD)/ Foundation Degree (FD)/ Scottish Professional Diploma(SPD) are routes into the Merchant Navy for officer cadets. The MNTB in conjunctionwith the MCA will approve nautical colleges that run these schemes to ensure STCWregulatory requirements for training and competency are met.

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The HD/FD/SPD consists of alternating periods of seagoing service and college-basedwork, which encompass the requirements for a Certificate of Competency.

If you undertake a HD/FD/SPD, you must achieve an overall examination pass averageof 50% or more, with a minimum of 65% in 'Navigation’ and a minimum of 60% in'Stability and Operations', to be eligible for the issue of a Certificate of Competency.

If you do not obtain an examination pass average of 50%, you must retake the examswhere 50% was not achieved. You will qualify for exemptions for each subject in whichyou achieved a 50% pass. If you do not pass or complete the HD/FD/SPD you will not beeligible for any exemptions.

If you complete an MNTB/MCA-approved HD/FD/SPD programme and meet theminimum pass rates set for assessment, you will qualify for exemptions from SQA writtenexaminations. Candidates commencing their HD/FD/SPD programme on or after 1st

September 2015 will not be eligible for exemptions from the SQA Chief Mate’s writtenexaminations for Navigation and Stability & Structure.

From 1st September 2022 all candidates for a Chief Mate unlimited, STCW Conventionregulation II/2, Certificate of Competency will be required to pass the SQA writtenexaminations in Navigation and Stability & Structure.

On successful completion of an MCA/MNTB-approved HD/FD/SPD, you will be issuedwith a course completion letter and certificate providing you with the evidence that youhave successfully completed the education and training programme applicable to theSTCW Code.

You must obtain your Chief Mate unlimited II/2, Certificate of Competency within 7 yearsfrom the issue of your HD/FD/SPD course completion certificate.

The contact details for the nautical colleges offering MCA/MNTB-approved schemes areavailable from the MCA website: www.gov.uk and search “nautical colleges”.

11.4 Higher National Diploma (HND)/ Higher National Certificate (HNC) route

The National Diploma (HND/HNC) route will enable you to gain the necessary educationand training required for the issue of a Certificate of Competency. The MCA will approveand monitor nautical colleges providing this route to ensure that the STCW regulatoryrequirements for training and competency are met. Nautical colleges offering this routewill need approval from the SQA in order to administer SQA exams.

On successful completion of a HNC/HND, you will be issued with a course completionletter and certificate providing you with the evidence that you have successfullycompleted the education and training programme applicable to the STCW Code.

You must obtain your OOW II/1 Certificate of Competency within 7 years from the issueof your HNC course completion certificate.

You must obtain your Chief Mate unlimited II/2, Certificate of Competency within 7 yearsfrom the issue of your HND course completion certificate.

If you do not obtain your Certificate of Competency within this time period you will needto complete the applicable academic programme again. For OOW that would be the fullHNC. For Chief Mate that would be the HND.

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HND/HNC route: If you undertake an MNTB-approved HND/HNC programme ofeducation and training, you will be eligible for a reduction in seagoing service from 36months to 12 months.

MCA-approved overseas collaborative programme: If you are following an MCA-approved overseas “one plus one” route overseen by a UK College you will be requiredto complete all the elements of the HND/HNC programme and should refer to yourcollege letter for details of your seagoing service requirements.

Experienced seafarer route: If you are not on an MNTB-approved route or an MCA-approved overseas collaborative programme you will need to be examined in thecompetencies required by the STCW Code and complete 36 months’ seagoing service.These competencies are assessed by completing a number of HNC/HND units, the SQAexaminations and the appropriate oral examination. If you are not enrolled on an MNTB-approved route and have been working as a General Purpose (GP) rating you mustdemonstrate 48 months’ seagoing service.

The contact details for the nautical colleges offering HND/HNC approved schemes areavailable from the MCA website: www.gov.uk and search “nautical colleges”.

11.5 Exemptions

In exceptional circumstances, the MCA’s Chief Examiner may allow an exemption fromany part of the examinations to candidates who have achieved relevant academicattainment or technical training considered to be equivalent.

12. Medical Fitness and Eyesight Standards

12.1 For any Certificate of Competency, you must meet the medical fitness and eyesightstandards as required by the Merchant Shipping (Maritime Labour Convention) (MedicalCertification) Regulations 2010 (S.I. 2010/737) as amended. Details on the application ofthose regulations are found in MSN 1839, or any subsequent amendment.

12.2 The seafarer medical examination includes a sight test for both colour vision and visualacuity. Failure to meet the statutory requirements will mean that an unrestricted medicalcertificate cannot be issued. If you are considering a seagoing career it is stronglyadvised that you undergo a medical and sight test, which includes testing of bothcolour and visual acuity, before you start the training. You can arrange a separatesight test with a local optometrist by taking along an Application for Seafarer Vision TestForm (MSF 4100). The form can be obtained by contacting an MCA Marine Office or theMCA Seafarer Health and Safety Branch seafarer.s&[email protected]

12.3 For any Certificate of Competency you must produce a valid medical fitness certificate,either:

(a) The UK medical fitness certificate, currently known as an ENG 1, issued by aMCA-approved medical practitioner; or

(b) A certificate issued by the administration of any country whose medical fitnesscertificate is recognised as equivalent to the UK ENG 1.

Updated lists are available from the MCA website.

12.4 The medical fitness certificate must specify the date of examination, the period of validityand any restriction applied.

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13. Conversions to OOW unlimited, STCW Convention regulation II/1, Certificate ofCompetency

13.1 Class 1 Fishing Certificate of Competency

If you hold a UK-issued Class 1 (Fishing Vessel) Certificate of Competency, you mustmeet the following requirements to obtain an OOW unlimited, II/1, Certificate ofCompetency:

(a) Have completed 6 months’ seagoing sea service in merchant or fishing vessels of atleast 80 GT or 24 m registered length;

(b) Pass SQA OOW written examinations in Stability and Operations or complete HNC/Dunits for cargo work and ship stability;

(c) Hold the applicable (II/1) ancillary and safety course certificates listed in section 10;(d) Hold a valid ENG1 (medical fitness certificate) or accepted equivalent.

13.2 Holders of a Class 2 UK Fishing Certificate of Competency

If you hold a UK Class 2 (Fishing Vessel) Certificate of Competency you must meet thefollowing requirements to obtain an OOW unlimited, II/1, (STCW), Certificate ofCompetency:

(a) Have completed 6 months’ seagoing sea service within the last 5 years of which 3months’ service must be in merchant vessels of at least 80 GT or 24 m registeredlength;

(b) Pass SQA OOW written examinations at an approved SQA Centre in the followingsubjects:


(c) Hold the applicable (II/1) ancillary and safety course certificates listed in section 10;(d) Hold a certificate evidencing successful completion of “Underpinning Knowledge for

OOW, certification” (HNC) listed in section 11.4;(e) Hold a Signals certificate issued within the last 3 years;(f) Hold a valid ENG1 (medical fitness certificate) or accepted equivalent;(g) Pass MCA oral examination ‘C’ (for the syllabus see MGN 69 or any subsequent

publication).

If you hold Electronic Navigation Systems (ENS) and Navigational Command andControl (NCC) certificates, you will not be required to obtain an NAEST Operationalcertificate. Holders of ENS and NCC, who do not hold a NAEST certificate, mustcomplete an MCA-approved ECDIS course.

If you hold an Irish Deck Class 1 or Class 2 Fishing Certificate of Competency you will beeligible to apply for the UK Fishing Class 1 certificate, provided that you meet therelevant requirements to obtain a UK Class 1 Fishing Certificate of Competency.

13.3 Holders of a Deck OOW, yacht less than 3000 GT, II/1, Certificate of Competency

If you hold an OOW (yacht less than 3000 GT), II/ 1 Certificate of Competency you mustmeet the following requirements to obtain an OOW unlimited, II/1 Certificate ofCompetency:

(a) Complete 36* months in yachts of more than 24m in registered length or at least 80GT, with evidence of at least 6 months involved in bridge watchkeeping;

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(b) Hold a certificate evidencing successful completion of “Underpinning Knowledge forOOW, certification” (HNC) listed in section 11.4;

(c) Hold the applicable ancillary safety course certificates listed in section 10;(d) Hold a Signals certificate issued within the last 3 years;(e) Pass SQA written examinations, in the following subjects:


(f) Hold a valid ENG1 (medical fitness certificate) or accepted equivalent;(g) Pass MCA oral `C’ (for the syllabus see MGN 69 or any subsequent publication).

*Please refer to Annex F for how to count your yacht sea service.

14. Conversions from non-UK Certificates of Competency

If you hold a Certificate of Competency issued by a foreign administration you may be eligibleto enter the UK education and training system for certification. The non-UK CoC must be valid(in-date) at the time of the issue of your Notice of Eligibility and UK Certificate of Competency.CoC.

14.1 UK Chief Mate unlimited, STCW Convention regulation II/2, Certificate ofCompetency

To qualify for the issue of UK Chief Mate unlimited, II/2, Certificate of Competency youmust already hold a valid OOW unlimited, II/1, Certificate of Competency issued underthe authority of an administration included in the IMO list of STCW parties (the “WhiteList”) and meet the full requirements for Chief Mate unlimited, II/2, Certificate ofCompetency listed in paragraph 3.3.

14.2 UK Master unlimited, STCW Convention regulation II/2, Certificate of Competency

To qualify for the issue of a UK Master unlimited, II/2, Certificate of Competency, youmust already hold a valid Chief Mate unlimited, II/2, or Master unlimited, II/2, Certificateof Competency issued under the authority of an Administration included in the IMO list ofSTCW parties (the “White List”) and meet the full requirements for Chief Mate unlimited,II/2, and Master unlimited, II/2, as listed in paragraphs 3.3 and 3.4.Please note you willonly need to pass the MCA oral examination ‘A’.

15. Royal Navy Conversions

15.1 There is a Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) between the Royal Navy and theMaritime and Coastguard Agency (MCA). The MOU details the requirements for RoyalNavy Commanding, Executive and watchkeeping officers to be issued with an STCWCertificate of Competency.

15.2 For further information please contact the Seafarer Training and Certification Branch:[email protected].

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16. Application Procedure

16.1 The application form, MSF 4274, details the procedure and fee to obtain a Certificate ofCompetency. You must complete this and submit it to the MCA with the relevant fee anddocuments listed on the form.

16.2 The application form is available to download from our website, go to www.gov.uk andsearch “MSF 4274”.

16.3 If you are required to pass an MCA oral examination and you meet the requirementsspecified on the application form, you will be issued with a Notice of Eligibility (NOE).

16.4 With the exception of passports, the supporting documents (evidence) must be original.Applicants for a UK Certificate of Competency should submit a photocopy of theirpassport attested by:

A Notary Public (UK or Foreign); MCA-approved nautical colleges; Your maritime administration; Another MCA-approved organisation.

17. Notice of Eligibility (NOE)

17.1 You will be issued with an NOE once you have met the requirements specified below.The NOE will allow you to book an oral exam at an MCA Marine Office and provide youwith a list of any outstanding documents that you will need to submit prior to the issue ofyour Certificate of Competency.

17.2 At least 6 months of the qualifying seagoing service must have been performed withinthe 5 years immediately preceding the issue of your NOE.

17.3 Prior to the issue of your NOE you must submit:

The appropriate fee; An ENG1 (medical fitness certificate) or accepted equivalent7; Passport (attested copy); 2 passport-size photos attested by a counter signatory; Proof of the required seagoing service applicable to the Certificate of

Competency you are applying for.

17.4 For the OOW II/1 and II/3 Certificate of Competency you must also submit:

STCW Basic safety training:

o Personal Survival Techniques (STCW Code – Table A-VI/1-1);o Fire Prevention and Fire Fighting (STCW Code – Table A-VI/1-2);o Elementary First Aid (STCW Code – Table A-VI/1-3);o Personal Safety and Social Responsibilities (STCW Code - Table A-

VI/1-4);

Completed Training Record Book (if following MNTB-approved route);

7 To go to sea you must have obtained a valid medical fitness certificate. Whilst this may have expiredwhen you apply for your NOE, it must be valid at the time when we issue your Certificate ofCompetency.

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A letter from the college confirming your attendance on the programme.

17.5 NOEs are valid for 5 years from the date of issue. The date of issue will be stampedon your NOE. Once this period has elapsed8 you must make a new application with thesupporting documentation and the appropriate fee.

18. MCA Oral Examination

18.1 If you are undertaking the MNTB-approved OOW education and training programme thatallows a reduction in seagoing service, you must deposit your MNTB TRB at the MarineOffice where you are scheduled to sit the examination at least two working days prior toyour examination date.

18.2 You must take your current passport (with visa if applicable) to the oral examination as ameans of identification.

18.3 It is recommended that you complete all of the education and training before attemptingthe oral examination, as this will provide you with the knowledge on which theexamination is based.

18.4 The MCA examiner will record the result of your oral examination on your NOE.

18.5 Your oral examination pass is valid for a period of 3 years. This must be in date atthe time of the issue of your Certificate of Competency. The NOE must be returned tothe MCA with any outstanding documentary evidence.

18.6 If you fail your oral examination you will need to apply to the MCA for another NOE andpay an additional fee. Details of how to do this can be found on the NOE.

18.7 If a candidate fails an oral examination, re-sits may be taken at the following intervals:

Second attempt - at least two weeks after the initial examination Third attempt - at least two weeks after the second attempt Subsequent attempts - at least three months after the previous attempt

18.8 Time periods between examinations can be reduced at the discretion of the MCAexaminer. Where a candidate exhibits a lack of basic competency across the syllabus ormakes fundamental errors in areas of safety, the examiner may impose a seagoingservice penalty which the candidate must complete before re-sitting the examination.

18.9 Further information about the NOE and oral examination syllabus can be found in MGN69 or any subsequent publication.

19. The Issue of your Certificate of Competency

19.1 At least 6 months of the qualifying seagoing service must have been performed withinthe 5 years immediately preceding the issue of your Certificate of Competency. ACertificate of Competency will not be issued until the MCA has received all thedocumentary evidence confirming you have met the required standard.

19.2 The appropriate Certificate of Competency will be issued and is valid for a period of 5years from the date that the qualifying conditions were met. Your ENG1 seafarermedical (or accepted equivalent) must be valid at the time when we issue your

8 If you do not pass your oral examination within this timescale, your application will be rejected and theappropriate fee will be taken.

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Certificate of Competency. Any outstanding fees must be received by the MCA before anNOE or Certificate of Competency will be issued.

19.3 Your GMDSS certificate should be submitted with your NOE pass so that the STCWendorsement expiry date can be synchronised with your Certificate of Competency.

19.4 You must check you meet the current regulatory requirements when you make aninitial application AND at the time you submit your NOE pass for the issue of yourCertificate of Competency.

19.5 Further information and guidance is available from our website go to www.gov.ukand search “Deck CoC”.

20. Fraudulent Certificates and Seagoing Service

20.1 The MCA checks that all of the information you submit in support of your application isaccurate and true. We:

Verify all Certificates of Competency and Watchkeeping certificates issued byforeign administrations;

Check and verify ancillary and safety course certificates; Verify sea service testimonials and discharge book entries; Only accept original course completion certificates.

20.2 If you submit fraudulent seagoing service records or certificates we will not allow you toproceed with your application. We reserve the right not to let you apply again until after aperiod specified by the MCA’s Chief Examiner.

20.3 We may also refer your application to the MCA Enforcement Branch who may decide toproceed against you in court.

20.4 The UK holds a record of all Certificates of Competency issued. The authenticity of aCertificate of Competency can be verified on request. For more information please emailthe MCA by email: [email protected].

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More Information

Seafarer Training and CertificationMaritime and Coastguard Agency,Bay 2/13Spring Place,105 Commercial Road,Southampton,SO15 1EG.

Tel : +44 (0) 23 8032 9(see our website or application forms for number).Fax : +44 (0) 23 8032 9N/A.e-mail: [email protected].

General Inquiries: [email protected] .

MCA Website Address: www.dft.gov.uk/mca .

File Ref: N/A

Published: June 2015Please note that all addresses andtelephone numbers are correct at time of publishing.

© Crown Copyright 2015.

Safer Lives, Safer Ships, Cleaner Seas.

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Annex A

OOW Unlimited, II/1:applicable education and training, 12 months’ seagoing service or 36 months’ for non-approved route,

Oral Exam C(refer to section 3.2, page 4)

Chief Mate <3000 GT,unlimited area, II/2:

Oral Exam D(refer to section 4.1, page 6)

Chief Mate unlimited II/2:applicable

education and trainingOral Exam B

(Section 3.3 page 5)

Chief Mate, <3000 GT, nearcoastal II/2:


Chief Mate, unlimited GT, nearcoastal, II/2: applicableeducation and training

Oral Exam F(refer to section 5.1, page 7)

12 months’seagoing service

Master, unlimited, II/2:Oral Exam A

(refer to section 3.4, page 6)

Master < 3000GT unlimitedarea, II/2





24 or 12 months’seagoing service*

* You must complete 36 months watchkeeping service since obtaining a regulationII/1 Certificate of Competency. This may bereduced to 24 months if at least 12 months ofthis seagoing service has been completed asa Chief Mate.

Summary: Deck Certificate of Competency (CoC) structure to Master unlimited. This flowchart is to summarise the routes to obtain anunlimited area CoC. To be issued with a CoC you must meet the full requirements listed in the applicable section of this MSN.




36 months‘seagoing service

24 or 12 months’seagoing service*

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Annex B

OOW Unlimited, II/1:applicable

education and training, 12 months’ seagoing service or 36months‘ for non -approved route,

Oral Exam C(refer to section 3.2, page 4)

Chief Mate <3000 GT, unlimitedarea, II/2:


Chief Mate <3000 GT,near coastal, II/2:


Master, <500 GT near coastal,II/3: Oral Exam D


Master <3,000 GT specifiedtrading area, II/3:

Oral Exam H(refer to section 8.2, page 9)

OOW unlimited, II/1:Complete education and training foran OOW CoC (refer to section 3.2,

page 4) *

Chief Mate, unlimited GT, nearcoastal, II/2:

applicable education and trainingOral Exam F

(section 5.1 page 7)

6 months’ seagoingservice


12 months’ seagoingservice in specified

area


Summary Deck certificate structure to Master near coastal. This flowchart is to summarise the routes to obtain near coastalendorsements. To be issued with a Competency of Competency (CoC) you must meet the full requirements listed in the applicablesection of this MSN.

OOW, <500 GT, near coastal:applicable education and training,12

months’ seagoing service or 36months’ for non approved route,

Oral Exam E(refer to section 6.1 , page 8)

Master, unlimited GT, near coastal,II/2:

Oral Exam G (refer to section 5.2,page 7)






Complete additional academicunits required to meet

the standard for an OOWunlimited, II/1 CoC

12 months’seagoing


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Annex C

Holders of a UK Chief Mate unlimited, II/2 Certificate of Competency where thequalifying conditions were met prior to the 1st January 1980, upgrading to a Masterunlimited, II/2, Certificate of Competency,

In addition to the requirements listed in section 3.4, you must provide documentary evidence ofthe following:

(a) A testimonial from an MCA-approved college confirming successful completion of thefollowing SQA HND units (or equivalent):

Management of Bridge Operations; Shipmaster’s Business; Shipboard Management; Marine Engineering Systems;

(b) Passing the following Chief Mate MCA written examinations administered by SQA:

Navigation; Stability & Structure;

(c) Successful completion of MCA-approved:

Navigation Control Course (NCC); or Navigation, Radar and ARPA Simulator Training (NARAS) Management

Level; or Navigational Aids and Equipment Simulator Training, Management Level.

If you hold a NCC or NARAS issued before 01 January 2005 you will need to complete anMCA-approved or accepted ECDIS course or undertake the NAEST Management course priorto obtaining a Certificate of Competency. Details of MCA-approved EDCIS courses areavailable from our website www.gov.uk and search “MCA ATP” or “MCA Approved TrainingProviders”.

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Annex D

Hovercraft Certificate of Competency

Holders of appropriate UK qualifications may apply to obtain a hovercraft Certificate ofCompetency issued under STCW regulation II/3 for the capacity of Master with the followinglimitation:

“Hovercraft less than 500 GT on near-coastal voyages only”.

If you hold an OOW unlimited, II/1 Certificate of Competency you must meet thefollowing requirements:(a) Hold a valid High Speed Craft (HSC) hovercraft type-rating certificate;(b) Hold a valid ENG1 (medical fitness certificate) or accepted equivalent;(c) Pass MCA oral examination ‘D’ (for the syllabus see MGN69 or any subsequent

publication).

If you hold an MCA-accepted UK qualification as Master of hovercraft you must meetthe following requirements:(a) Hold a valid High Speed Craft (HSC) hovercraft type-rating certificate;(b) Hold the applicable ancillary and safety course certificates listed in section 10;(c) Hold a valid GMDSS ROC;(d) Hold a valid ENG1 (medical fitness certificate) or accepted equivalent;(e) Pass MCA oral examination ‘D’ (for the syllabus see MGN69 or any subsequent

publication).

If you hold a Royal Navy Navigation Watch Certificate (STCW Convention regulation II/1)or a Command Qualification 1 (STCW Convention regulation II/1) you must meet thefollowing requirements:(a) Hold a valid High Speed Craft (HSC) hovercraft type-rating certificate;(b) Hold the applicable ancillary and safety course certificates listed in section 10;(c) Hold a valid GMDSS ROC;(d) Hold a valid ENG1 (medical fitness certificate) or accepted equivalent;(e) Pass MCA oral examination ‘D’ (for the syllabus see MGN 69 or any subsequent

publication).

If you hold a Chief Mate (II/2 and II/3) or Master (II/2 and II/3) Certificate of Competencyyou may upgrade without examination, subject to meeting the following requirements:(a) Hold a UK qualification as Master of hovercraft or valid HSC hovercraft type-rating

certificate;(b) Hold a valid ENG1 (medical fitness certificate) or accepted equivalent.

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Annex E

Deck Cadet and Rating Seagoing Service Testimonial for Maritime and CoastguardAgency

Company Address/Contact Details

Company Name:

Address:

Contact Details: Tel:

E-mail:

This is to certify that:Full name of Trainee/Rating:

Date of Birth:

Discharge Book Number:

has served on:

Name of Vessel: IMO Number:

Type of Vessel: Gross Tonnage:

Date of Joining: Date of Discharge:

Please record, below, the actual watchkeeping time undertaken on this voyage.During this period the above-named trainee/ rating accrued the following bridge watchkeepingduty (under the supervision of a certificated navigation officer) for not less than 4 hours out ofevery 24 hours while the vessel was engaged on seagoing voyages:

days

In addition the above-named trainee/rating:a) Regularly carried out other duties in connection with the routine and maintenance of

the ship*b) Was granted no leave of absence*c) Was granted leave of absence as follows:

…………………………………………………………………………………..*Delete as appropriate

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This section must be completed.

My report on the service of the above-named trainee/rating, during the period stated, is asfollows:

Conduct

Ability

General comments

Type of Tanker:

During this period the ship carried the following types of cargo(es) (the different types andgrades of oil, gas and chemicals should be specified):

I confirm the above-named trainee/rating has gained experience in carrying out regular cargohandling duties during the period stated:

PART 4 – OFFICIAL ENDORSEMENT

Name of Master:

Certificate Details:

Number

Issuing Administration:

Signature of Master**:

Date:

Ship’s/Company stamp:** In exceptionalcircumstances thistestimonial may be signedby a responsible officialof the Company.

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Deck Officer Seagoing Service Testimonial for Maritime and Coastguard Agency

Company Address/Contact Details

Company Name:

Address:

Contact Details: Tel:

E-mail:

This is to certify that:Full name of Officer:

Date of Birth:

Discharge Book Number:

has served on:Name of Vessel: IMO Number:

Type of Vessel: Gross Tonnage:

Date of Joining: Date of Discharge:

Please record, below, the actual watchkeeping time undertaken on this voyage.During this period the above-named officer accrued the following bridge watchkeeping duty(under the supervision of a certificated navigation officer) for not less than 4 hours out of every24 hours while the vessel was engaged on seagoing voyages:

days

In addition the above-named officer:

a) Was granted no leave of absence*b) Was granted leave of absence as follows:

…………………………………………………………………………………..*Delete as appropriate

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This section must be completed.

My report on the service of the above-named officer, during the period stated, is as follows:

Conduct

Ability

General comments

Type of Tanker:

During this period the ship carried the following types of cargo(es) (the different types andgrades of oil, gas and chemicals should be specified):

I confirm the above-named officer has gained experience in carrying out regular cargohandling duties during the period stated:

PART 4 – OFFICIAL ENDORSEMENT

Name of Master:

Certificate Details:

Number

Issuing Administration:

Signature of Master**:

Date:

Ship’s/Company stamp:** In exceptionalcircumstances thistestimonial may be signedby a responsible officialof the Company.

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Annex FSeagoing service on specialised ships

Service in the specialised ships listed in the table below will be counted towards the qualifyingseagoing service required for a Certificate of Competency subject to the conditions stated insection 9.

Type of vessel – Must be atleast 24m in registered length ormore than 80 GT

Applicable rate Conditions

FPSOs, FSUs, mooredConstruction and Supportvessels, and MOUs on station inDP mode or anchored.Semi submersibles,

0.5 Service can be counted up to a maximumof 50% towards the total required seagoingservice.

This cannot be used if you are a cadet ortrainee following an MNTB-approvedtraining programme unless your companyhas an agreement with the MCA. If yourcompany has an agreement with the MCA,then you must submit a company letterdetailing your company’s agreement.

Jack ups with propulsion device 1.0 Deck Cadets on MNTB-approved OOWprogrammes must complete at least 3months on any other vessel that qualifiesunder section 9 of this MSN.

Officers applying for higher levelCertificates of Competency working onthese vessels must complete at least 25%more than the seagoing service required.

Cable ships, mobile drillingships, self-propelled MOUs,jack-ups, dredgers, semi-submersibles on passage.

Salvage vessels, navaidtenders, cruising pilot vessels,custom launches and otherspecialised craft.

1.0 Service will be counted as full provided that2/3 of the time onboard is spent at sea.

Other cases will be treated on a pro-ratabasis

In all cases sea service and the operationalpatterns and work arrangements of thevessels must be properly documented tosupport an application

MOU - Mobile Offshore UnitFPSO - Floating Production Storage Off-takeFSU - Floating Storage UnitsDP - Dynamically Positioned

If you have other types or combinations of seagoing service not included in the table above, detailsof service together with documentary evidence should be submitted for consideration to the MCA’sChief Examiner.

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Seagoing service on yachtsSeagoing service in yachts of more than 24m in registered length or more than 80 GT will becounted in full towards the issue of an unlimited regulation II/1 or II/2 Certificate ofCompetency using the sea service definitions and calculations in part 5 of this MSN.

Seagoing service on yachts will be counted as a combination of actual seagoing service,standby service and yard service where:

Standby service does not exceed the number of days performed on the previousvoyage and in no case exceeds a maximum of 14 days in each period. Therefore,under no circumstances can standby service exceed actual sea service.

Yard service does not exceed a maximum total of 90 days for OOW and 30 days forChief Mate or Master.

If you have an OOW unlimited, II/1, or a Chief Mate unlimited, II/2, Certificate of Competencyand are serving on yachts, in order to qualify for higher Certificate of Competency you mustmeet the seagoing service requirements in section 3.3 (for OOW to Chief Mate) or 3.4 (forChief Mate to Master) and this must include:

At least 6 months of the required seagoing service on yachts of 500 GT or moreoperating beyond UK categorised water waters or if outside of the UK, beyond theharbour limits; OR

At least 6 months of the required seagoing service on vessels of at least 24 metres,made up of voyages of more than 300 nautical miles.

Yacht service must be submitted on yacht service testimonials and include a breakdown ofactual, stand-by-service and yard time. For definitions of yacht service and yacht seagoingservice testimonials please refer to MSN 1858.

Seagoing Service on tugs

Seagoing service in tugs is counted in full on vessels over 24 metres or 80 GT that proceed tosea. Seagoing service in categorised waters will be counted at a rate of 75% and can accounttowards a maximum 75% of the total seagoing service required. The remaining 25% must beon vessels of over 24 metres or 80 GT that proceed to sea.

Seagoing service in categorised waters

Seagoing service on vessels operating in categorised waters will be counted towards aCertificate of Competency to allow trainee officers and deck ratings sailing on such vessels toundertake the education, training and examination required for a Certificate of Competency.The Certificate of Competency issued will be limited to service in Category ‘D’ or ‘C’ waters (asdefined in Merchant Shipping Notice 1837 or any subsequent amendment) as appropriate.

To remove this limitation you must complete 6 months’ seagoing service outside categorisedwaters as a trainee deck officer, deck rating (including time spent associated with BridgeWatchkeeping duties), supernumerary deck officer or as an officer in seagoing waters within aSpecified Area while holding a Reg. II/3 Certificate of Competency limited to Category ‘D’waters. This sea service must be performed on merchant ships of at least 24 metres in lengthor not less than 80 GT proceeding to sea.Royal Navy Sea serviceRoyal Navy Officers holding an RN Navigational Watch Keeper Certificate (NWC) with aminimum of 12 months’ seagoing service will be required to complete 3 months’ seagoingservice on merchant vessels.

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Annex G

Approval of education and training programmes

In accordance with STCW Convention regulation I/6, all nautical colleges planning to offereducation and training leading to the issue of a Certificate of Competency will need to gainMCA approval.

All awards must be validated by the awarding body. The MCA and the MNTB will worktogether with awarding bodies to ensure that the award (currently HND/HNC, FoundationDegree/ Scottish Professional Diploma or Honours Degree) is fit for purpose and covers allrequirements of the underpinning knowledge applicable to the STCW Code.

Nautical colleges will need to gain approval from an awarding body to award their qualification(e.g. If the college wishes to use an SQA HND, then the college must seek approval from theSQA).

UK Cadet Training

All UK cadet training programmes are currently approved by the MNTB in consultation with theMCA. Nautical colleges will need to develop a programme of training that must be approvedby the MNTB in accordance with their published guidelines.

Non-UK Cadet Training

To gain approval, nautical colleges will have to undergo assessment by the MCA to ensuretheir training standards meet the STCW requirements. Nautical colleges wishing to obtainapproval should make a written application to the MCA outlining:

Course title; Lesson plan; Course duration; Facilities, teaching aids and equipment; Staff qualifications and experience; Examination and assessment procedures; Monitoring of entry requirements; Issue, control, authentication and recording of certification; and Quality management systems and procedures.

Nautical colleges will need to develop an education and training programme that incorporatesan MCA-approved HND/HNC delivering the underpinning knowledge required for the trainingof deck officers.

Approval

When the MCA is satisfied that the education and training programme meets the requirementsof the STCW Code, an approval letter will be issued by the MCA Seafarer Training andCertification Branch.

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Ongoing Monitoring

Nautical College requirements: In accordance with STCW Convention regulation I/8,all nautical colleges that offer education and training leading to the issue of a Certificateof Competency will be periodically audited by the MCA in accordance with the followingrequirements:

Course title; Lesson plan; Course duration; Facilities, teaching aids and equipment; Staff qualifications and experience; Examination and assessment procedures; Monitoring of entry requirements; Issue, control, authentication and recording of certification; and Quality management systems and procedures.

Any changes to course structure or syllabus must be submitted in writing to the MCAand, if offering UK cadet training, the MNTB.

The introduction of a new course that is developed by an MCA-approved nauticalcollege leading to the issue of a Certificate of Competency must be approved by theMCA and, if offering UK cadet training, the MNTB.

The MCA/MNTB will inform the nautical colleges of any changes to STCW regulationsthat will affect the education and training syllabus. When notified, nautical collegesmust provide details in writing of how they plan to incorporate such changes into theirprogrammes. Once the MCA/MNTB are satisfied that the new STCW regulatoryrequirements have been met they will re-issue an approval letter. Prior to approval theMCA/MNTB may carry out a site visit.

Blended Learning

Any nautical college planning to offer a blended learning package must present theirproposal to the MCA for approval.

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